Do I need a new fuse board?
Your fuse box is vital in controlling the electrical circuits in your home, providing you with lighting and power. Over time they can age or become damaged, this may be when you start to notice problems with your fuse box. From circuits tripping to lights flickering, it may be time to consider a replacement.
What is a fuse box?
Typically, your fuse box will be located near the entrance of your home. In the event of an emergency, you should be able reach your fuse box quickly.
Your fuse box will comprise of:
· Main switch, which is used to turn off all electrical supply to your home, it is vital to know where this is in an emergency.
· Residual Current Devices (RCD) automatically switch off your electricity when they detect a problem with an electrical appliance or sense someone has touched a live wire. It is recommended that you test the RCDs at least every three months. Find out how to do this on Electrical Safety First.
· Circuit breakers which are similar to RCDs. They are also designed for safety purposes by switching off a circuit when danger is detected.
What can go wrong with my fuse box?
Taking a look at the inner components of your fuse box can be daunting, especially in older installations. If you are unsure as to what is causing problems with your fuse box, get in contact with us. We’d be happy to visit and check the condition of your fuse box.
Most problems with your fuse box will unfortunately come with age:
· Fuses may become loose or fall out, this could be an indication that the terminals are either defected or have rusted, meaning they can no longer serve their purpose.
· Your fuse box may keep tripping, this shouldn’t happen time and time again. It may be down to poor wiring or short circuit contained in the box.
· If fuses or terminals show signs of damage such as melting or burning, they have overheated. This is dangerous and a qualified electrician should be contacted before the problem grows and puts your home at risk of an electrical fire.
· The fuse box smells or makes strange sounds, this is a warning that something is not right inside.
· Circuits can become overloaded, forcing your fuse box to overwork. As our homes become filled with more and more technology, we are requiring more and more electricity. An overloaded fuse box can be very dangerous; we’d be happy to advise you on the size of fuse board you should be using for your property.
When do I need a new fuse box?
If you experience any of the problems outlined above, we highly recommend you get in touch with us. We will advise you as to whether a repair or replacement is necessary.
There are also other reasons why you may need a new fuse box:
· For electrical safety. Older fuse boxes can often experience poor cable connections, causing overheating and leading to electrical fires.
· If your lights are flickering or your sockets are unresponsive, this could be a sign that your fuse box is deteriorating.
· For your safety. Older fuse boxes were designed with RCDs, yet they are vital in preventing electrical shock. If you are unable to find this component on your fuse box, a replacement is necessary.
· Asbestos flash guards were used on old fuse boxes; asbestos fibres are known to be very harmful if breathed in.
· You require additional circuits or your fuse box is full. This is very common for people who are renovating their home.
In conclusion
Your fuse box should be checked regularly to ensure the safety of you and your home. If a replacement fuse box is required, it is vital this is completed by a qualified electrician. Every fuse box installation should be accompanied by a certificate confirming your compliance with building regulations.
Contact Boxgrove Electrical Contractors
Boxgrove would be more than happy to assess your current fuse box and help determine whether you require a new fuse box or a repair.
Contact us on 07871 513045 / 01483 576353, email jack@boxgroveelectrical.com or fill out the form below and we will get in touch as soon as possible or fill out the form and we will get in touch as soon as possible.